Can Learner Control be Implemented in HTML-Based Tutorials?
It appears that both content and context methods of learner control can be applied through a Web structure although some content methods may be more difficult than others. The HTTP protocol allows branching of documents and can be used for both content control and sequence control. Pace control is already inherent in distance education and providing a student tracking system within the CAI would require additional programming or CGI support. Feedback control is limited by the basic HTML standard but can be improved greatly with the addition of CGIs. Display control and context methods of control (background and text density controls) appear well within the educator’s ability to implement using HTML. Learner control strategies like FullMinus and LeanPlus also seem possible. Another challenge using HTML in CAI design actually results from the strength of the Web. The Web was originally designed to facilitate the growth of non-linear knowledge bases throughout the Internet. Users are free
